How do I avoid shin splints and tight muscles after the bike to run transition?
This, again, is where training comes into play. Bricks (the bike-run workout) helps prepare your legs for the transition and the better conditioned your legs are for this phase, the less likely you will suffer from shin splints and muscle cramps. Also, near the end of the bike portion – maybe the last half to quarter mile – be sure to stand on the pedals and stretch your leg muscles, Drop your heels down to get a good calf stretch and squat over the seat to loosen those thighs. It will also help if during that last segment, you put the bike into an easier gear and spin the pedals. This will help loosen those tightened muscles. Finally, take a few seconds to stretch the calves, shins and thighs at the transition. Those seconds you will loose can result in minutes saved later.
